Our partner, Endre Várady, had the privilege of participating as an online role player (DPA/CEO) in an interactive data breach simulation during the Privacy Symposium, hosted by the Privacy Rules team in collaboration with Polpeo. The scenario involved a high-stakes ransomware attack, navigated in real-time by privacy lawyers, IT forensic specialists, and crisis communication experts.

This was a highly engaging and interactive session that explored critical issues such as data breach investigation, internal communication, communication to media and customers, the question of whether to pay a ransom, and striking the right balance between legal risk, ethical decisions, and reputational protection.

As no organization can predict if or when they will be the next target, this kind of crisis simulation is invaluable. Apart from well-established processes and cross-functional coordination, effective crisis management requires practice – and it is far better to rehearse your response before a real breach occurs.

Participating in such exercises also supports our firm in providing practical, multidisciplinary, and integrated legal advice in this increasingly complex area. We are planning to take part in future simulations – potentially leading our own group – and would be glad to connect with anyone interested in joining.

We would be happy to share more about upcoming sessions or explore collaboration – just drop us a line at varadye@vjt-partners.com